#44 Michele Ferrero & family

Owner of Ferrero, one of Europe's largest chocolate makers. Brands sold around the world include Ferrero Rocher, Nutella, Tic Tac and Kinder Eggs. In January a Nanjing, China court ruled that a Chinese chocolate company would have to recall gold-wrapped candies considered Ferrero Rocher imitations and pay an $87,000 fine. The decision came after Ferrero initially lost the case. Ferrero characterizes the Chinese chocolates as, "usually of poor quality, harming its brand value and sales." Ferrero nonetheless is determined to expand in Asia, particularly China. Michele relinquished day-to-day oversight to sons Pietro, 43, and Giovanni, 42, who are co-chiefs. Passions: church and chocolate. Lives in Monte-carlo, Monaco; sons live in Belgium.